Surf sharking in the dark

Hit the beaches at night for prime shark fishing

Surf fishing for sharks under a star-filled sky can bring an unforgettable experience to anglers. It’s tough to beat standing on a quiet Carolina beach with the warm Atlantic surf washing over your feet, and the anticipation of a powerful shark taking your bait. Night surf fishing for sharks during July offers anglers an exhilarating experience that combines the thrill of big-game fishing with the peaceful solitude of the coast after dark.

July brings peak summer conditions to the shoreline. The water is warm, baitfish are abundant, and shark activity is high, especially at night. Species like blacktip sharks, Atlantic sharpnose, spinner sharks, and bonnetheads come in close to feed under the cover of darkness. Even tiger sharks, and hammerheads, including some big ones, are in play for surf anglers.

Setting up for a night of shark fishing requires preparation and the right gear. A heavy surf rod (10 to 15 feet) paired with a sturdy spinning or conventional reel spooled with 50- to 80-pound braided line is essential for handling the power of a hooked shark. Steel leaders and non-offset circle hooks (8/0 to 12/0), help ensure safe shark fishing practices.

The best baits for shark fishing at night are fresh cut mullet, menhaden, bluefish or any oily fish that releases a strong scent trail in the dark water. Cut stingray is another promising bait.

Get the bait out there

Many anglers use kayaks to deploy baits beyond the sandbars, though casting just past the breakers is often enough. High tide and incoming tides are ideal times to fish, as sharks follow the rising water to hunt baitfish closer to shore.

Bring headlamps, lanterns, and glow sticks to mark rods and rigs, and keep your area well-lit for safety. It’s also important to pack pliers, a dehooking tool, and a measuring tape if needed for identification and compliance with state regulations. Always release sharks quickly and with care, keeping them in the water as much as possible.

Beyond the action, shark fishing at night offers a unique kind of serenity. The beach is quiet, the stars are out, and the only sounds are the crashing waves and the occasional scream of a reel. It’s a great time to fish with friends, reflect in solitude, or simply enjoy a wilder side of the coast.

If you’re up for adventure and want to experience the South Carolina shoreline in a whole new light, nighttime shark fishing in July is as exciting as it gets, with no boat required.